A moment of growth by KeZiah

A moment of growth by KeZiah - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

In elementary, I felt like I was interested in what some would consider "weird" or "geeky". Thankfully, in that small class, a few of my friends had similar interests as me as well. That made me feel less alone. As I think back, I'm grateful for them and those friendships I had and still have now. Despite knowing those very few people and seeing other people like me on social media, I didn't see many others in person. During my 8th grade year, I switched schools as well as school districts. By then I became used to keeping any interest that wasn't mainstream to myself, much more than I did when I was in elementary. Even if something I really liked was being talked about I wouldn't chime in most of the time unless I was already in the conversation. Even so, I tried to seem like I didn't know much of it unless it felt like a 'judge-free' situation.
In my Junior year I felt like I was able to grasp onto the idea of being similar, yet so different. Being quiet in school is one way I came to understand this idea. For example, hearing conversations of people in my class nerding-out about something they enjoy, whether it was often or not, it was something that connected with me. Some people would talk outwardly to the class, while others might whisper or talk to their friends, and some would show it in what they wear, watch, write, and draw in school. I'm able to realize they're just like me, it's something I find sweet to see. Whether they show embarrassment after a rant or share something loud and proud, I feel like I understand them in a way. Like in elementary school, I realized I wasn't alone. Even if I'm not friends with them, we share the same excitement, embarrassment, sadness, or anger for something we hold close to us. Everyone has a special interest that they might think is silly, but there should be no shame from themselves or others. I know I'm still like this now, but I hope one day I'll be able to share any interest without a worry.